The Foreign Secretary gave a speech at Wilton Park and announced that a British specialist team of 70 experts is now ready to be deployed to conflict and post conflict areas to support the UN and civil society in investigating allegations of sexual violence. The Foreign Secretary said: “Our generation has the opportunity, and the responsibility, to confront the use of rape and sexual violence as a weapon of war.”

Syria

The Foreign Secretary hosted an international meeting with Syria’s new Coalition leaders to discuss how to assist the people of Syria and build links with the new coalition. The Foreign Secretary outlined the priorities: to increase our humanitarian assistance, to better coordinate our practical support to people in opposition held areas on the ground, and to keep up the pressure for a diplomatic solution.

Minister Burt met participants of the John Smith Trust programme, funded by the UK’s Arab Partnership. Wafa’ Nimri from Jordan said the programme showcased “a system where collaborative ideas flourish and people are questioned and held to account. I loved it, it’s hands-on and spot-on.”